Gratitude expects nothing in return, yet it is a responsibility that we all share.

Giving without expecting anything in return is similar to expressing gratitude without expecting anything in return. Finally, expressing gratitude is a type of giving, and whether you realise it or not, there's a part of you that's hoping for reciprocity when you do either.

You express your gratitude and receive nothing in return, which stings. It hurts when you offer something and receive nothing in return. The longer this goes on, the more bitter and resentful you get.

You're experiencing all of this pain as a result of the expectations you've set merely because you chose to offer or show appreciation. You can pass judgement on the other person all you want, but you are the one who has chosen to place your expectations on someone else. It is in your hands, not theirs, to be disappointed.

Because we live in a chaotic society where everyone is always busy, the greatest gift someone can give you is their time. Because there's always something going on, there's always an excuse for not being able to meet up, make a phone call, or do any type of catch-up.

So, if you choose to express gratitude to those who do take the time, you must recognise that you are expressing gratitude for what they have already given you. There's nothing else there for you. That is merely an example; certainly, there are other scenarios at work.

It doesn't matter what it is; the point is that you should be able to offer and express gratitude without expecting anything in return. Even if anything is given in exchange, it may not happen right away.

You get something else when you offer, when you appreciate without expecting anything in return, whether you recognise it or not.

You're probably aware of the practise of paying for an extra cup of coffee so that the person behind you benefits. If you've ever done something like this and then stood there watching it happen, you've seen the benefactor's face light up with joy. They might even do the same for the individual in front of them. You chose to give, and though you didn't expect anything in return, what you got was someone else's happiness. It's a pleasant sensation.

When you choose to express your gratitude for someone, a location, or a thing, you will get their joy in return. Isn't that sufficient? I always thank the cashier when I stop at a coffee shop, grocery store, or convenience store. I usually end it with a 'have a wonderful day.'

It's something they're taught to do, but it's rare for someone to return the favour. It's a little detail, but I've spent enough time in service roles to understand how awful people can be to those who work in the business. It costs me nothing to leave on a nice note; it only takes a second or two to say, and then I walk away. I expressed my gratitude for their efforts. I'm not looking for anything in return.

However, it still gives me a great lift because people nearly always react with surprise. They don't have to give me anything; the expression on their faces is enough. I'd like to assist you in harnessing this power as well, so let's take a look at some of the ways you can focus on appreciation without expecting anything in return. It all begins with self-improvement.

A heart that is full. All we need is love, according to the Beatles, and all we need is love, according to John Mayer... the truth lies somewhere in the centre. Finally, the most important love we require begins at home. You're not giving or appreciating with a full heart if you're continually seeking fulfilment, acknowledgement, and love from other sources. You can give without receiving when your heart is full. When you have a full heart, you may express gratitude without expecting anything in return. Because your heart is already full, you don't require anything in return. When you truly appreciate others, you're all about giving things and have no desire to receive anything in return.

Abundance. Do you believe in the concept of abundance? If that's the case, you could give away almost everything you own and yet believe you have plenty. It's the difference between having a happy perspective and having a negative thinking based on lack. Scarcity is the belief that there is never enough, and those who have this belief are constantly looking for things in return. It may seem trite to suggest that you alter your thinking, yet it is true. Adopt an abundance mindset to express gratitude without expecting anything in return. Because you realise that you will always have plenty in reserve, you can choose to bless others in countless ways.

Knowledge. What is the most powerful thing you can think of? Knowing that simply expressing gratitude, you are improving someone else's day (or life). That should be sufficient for you to express gratitude without asking anything in return. If you believe you have something to give, whether it's gratitude or something else, you believe you're capable of doing so. When you have so much to give, why would you need anything in return?

Equality. If you're going to show your appreciation, it should go to everyone who deserves it, not just the people you think need it the most. Give freely if there is gratitude to be given. We don't need to keep an eye on it. We have a habit of ignoring those who irritate us, who we determine don't deserve our gratitude, or who we simply don't like. Remove that thought from your mind. Allow yourself to be unrestricted in your gratitude.

The Resurrection. What's more narrow-minded than thinking you have to get something in return for expressing gratitude? It could be due to the fact that giving makes us feel as if we've made room for receiving. If you allow it, the cycle will continue indefinitely. I need you to clear your mind of that concept. Recognize that when you share your gratitude without expecting anything in return, you will be rewarded abundantly. It may not come from the person you expect, or in the style you expect, but the result is a much richer life, regardless of how it unfolds.

When you express gratitude, when you offer someone something, and you feel nervous or... unsatisfied, I want you to remember that your expectations are being displayed. It's natural, yet it's something you can overcome. People deserve to be appreciated without feeling forced to reciprocate in some way.

And if you go into every meeting or encounter expecting to walk away with something, you're not living life properly. Relationships should be reciprocal, but you shouldn't act solely because you expect something in return.

Would you want to be showered with praise or gifts solely for the sake of receiving something in return? That’s a level of obligation that none of us should feel comfortable with.